One Year as Your MP

On the 4th July 2024 I had the honour of being elected your Member of Parliament for South Antrim. This week marks one year since that election, and it has been humbling to have been able to look back and reflect on all that we’ve been able to do within these first twelve months.

Representing South Antrim on the green benches is a very different job to serving as an MLA up in Stormont. The pace of the place is unlike anywhere else, and to be able to be your voice in the ‘Mother of Parliaments’ is a privilege like no other, and be assured I take every opportunity to ensure that voice is heard.

Since being elected I have been grateful for the opportunities to be able to meet so many brilliant business owners, family farmers, community and charity groups, and individuals whose contributions to the fabric of South Antrim is invaluable. I have thoroughly enjoyed being able to work with them all to make the most of the opportunities ahead of us, and to assist them where I can in addressing the challenges they face.

Knowing that I’m raising the issues which matter the most to you is very important to me as your MP. Through surveys, constituent meetings, surgeries, visits and engagements across South Antrim, I have listened to you and have been your voice in the Commons. The topics raised are too many to list, but reforming our health service, tackling the costs of living, investing in key water, rail and housing infrastructure, addressing the ecological crisis at Lough Neagh, reducing crime and keeping the constituency safe, standing up for our farmers, veterans and the elderly, and growing the local economy are the top issues raised with me time and time again.

Through questions to the Prime Minister and his Government, written questions and letters to Minister, securing places on nine legislative committees, serving as an officer on All Party Parliamentary Groups, presenting a petition to the House, and a high attendance, voting and speaking record in Parliament – I have used the tools and resources available to me as your MP to raise your priorities directly with the government and keep South Antrim on the agenda.

Over the past twelve months, visiting our primary and post-primary schools, community coffee mornings, the fundraising breakfasts, and many of the fantastic charities and support services we have here in South Antrim has been a significant highlight and provided me with that informal opportunity to hear what you have to say. Thank you to all you who have reached out to me and my office, it’s been great to work closely with you.

I look forward to continuing all that we’ve started here in South Antrim!

As originally published in the Antrim Guardian: https://www.antrimguardian.co.uk/